A CITY was again invaded by Vikings yesterday as preparations began for a festival based on the Norsemen.

Two Viking traders, dressed in ice skates and furs and carrying provisions, travelled to the ice rink next to Clifford's Tower, in York, to prepare for the annual Viking Festival, which is organised by the city's Jorvik Viking Centre.

This year, the festival is based on the coronation of bloodthirsty warrior Erik Bloodaxe, who was crowned King of York in 952.

The finale of the ten-day festival will be a re-enactment of his coronation, with a candlelight procession and more than 100 Vikings turning out for the ceremony at York Minster, on February 21.

Among other events during the festival, which runs from February 13 to 22, will be a celebration of Scandinavian jewellery.